May 23, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton (0) controls the ball against New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) in the first quarter during game two of the eastern conference finals for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Pacers Star Tyrese Haliburton Draws Spot-On Comparison To `90 Sitcom Nerd

Originally posted on Back in the Day NBA on SI
By Shandel Richardson | Last updated May 25, 2025 7:46 AM ET

During the 1990s, the character Steve Urkel from the sitcom Family Matters was one of the most popular and annoying on television.

He was the nerdy neighbor who lived next to the Winslow family. At every chance, he nagged them. Urkel was known for spouting the catchphrase "Did I do that?" after one of his blunders.

But Urkel could also ball.

In one episode, he teamed with NBA great Larry Johnson to win a 3-on-3 tournament. In fact, the first time Urkel unleashed his basketball skills is now drawing comparison to Indiana Pacers star guard Tyrese Haliburton.

The X account Hater Report delivered this delightful mashup of Urkel and Haliburton. And it's perfect.

Nah man with this sh*t so ACCURATE lmao

“Tyrese Haliburton plays like Steve Urkel when he was dominating that episode of Family Matters”

pic.twitter.com/sMKIZTQ926
— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) May 24, 2025

This candid comparison is exactly what Haliburton needs to take a break from the past month of criticism. He was labeled most overrated in The Athletic's anonymous players poll.

While talking to ESPN's Jamal Collier, Haliburton explained how that motivates him. He uses it as fuel.

"I love external motivation," Haliburton said. "Somebody's talking s--t about me, I want to know because I want to respond. I want to go back at them."

The digs haven't prevented Haliburton from shining in the postseason. The Pacers are just two wins from the NBA Finals.

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This article first appeared on Back in the Day NBA on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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